Rambert Dance in Peaky Blinders The Redemption of Thomas Shelby is a thrilling adaptation of Steven Knight’s iconic TV series, brought to the stage by the renowned Rambert dance company. This production delves deep into the life of Tommy Shelby, offering a reimagined narrative that charts his journey from the trenches of World War I to his rise in the criminal underworld. Directed and choreographed by Benoit Swan Pouffer, the show fuses contemporary dance with the gritty atmosphere of post-war Birmingham, set to a powerful live score by Roman GianArthur. For fans of the series and dance alike, this performance provides a bold new perspective on a beloved story.
The production opens in the blood-soaked trenches of Flanders, capturing the horrors of war that leave the Shelby brothers forever scarred. As the narrative progresses, we follow Tommy Shelby’s tumultuous journey to power and redemption, with the arrival of Grace, an undercover agent whose mission is to infiltrate Tommy’s gang, adding intrigue and romance. As tensions rise, betrayal and revenge fuel the plot, culminating in an emotionally charged finale. Although grounded in familiar Peaky Blinders lore, the adaptation manages to stand alone, making it accessible to newcomers while offering fresh layers for seasoned fans.
The collaboration between set designer Moi Tran and lighting designer Natasha Chivers is nothing short of remarkable. The stage is a dynamic space, effortlessly transforming from the mud-soaked trenches of the battlefield to the smoky streets of Birmingham. The use of a raised platform adds a sense of depth, though some views may be slightly obstructed from the front stalls. Chivers' lighting design evokes the dark, moody tone of the series, with atmospheric dry ice and stark contrasts between light and shadow.
Richard Gellar’s period-accurate costumes perfectly capture the essence of the 1920s, with the iconic Peaky Blinders caps, sharp suits, and the glamorous attire of nightclub scenes. The wardrobe lends a sleek authenticity to the production while enhancing the physicality of the dancers.
The live score by Roman GianArthur, performed by an on-stage three-piece band, is electric, blending haunting original compositions with familiar tracks from the TV series, including Nick Cave’s “Red Right Hand.” The music pulses through the entire performance, heightening the intensity of the choreography and seamlessly weaving together the drama of the plot with the energy of the dance.
Benoit Swan Pouffer’s choreography is the heart of this production, offering a visceral and captivating portrayal of Tommy Shelby’s internal struggles. The physicality of the dancers brings the Shelby brothers' emotions to life, from the brutal combat sequences to the delicate intimacy of Tommy and Grace’s love story. Pouffer's approach marries raw, aggressive movements with moments of grace and tenderness, making the transitions between fight scenes and romantic interludes smooth and powerful. The hallucinatory sequences, particularly the opium-fueled nightmare, are a masterclass in blending narrative with expressive movement.
Conor Kerrigan leads the ensemble as Tommy Shelby, delivering a performance filled with intensity, charisma, and vulnerability. His portrayal captures Tommy’s complex persona—a man hardened by war and crime, yet yearning for redemption. Naya Lovell shines as Grace, her chemistry with Kerrigan palpable, while Dylan Tedaldi as Arthur and Adél Bálint as Ada offer standout performances that add depth to the Shelby family dynamics. The entire Rambert ensemble moves as a cohesive unit, and their commitment to the choreography and storytelling is palpable throughout.
Peaky Blinders: The Redemption of Thomas Shelby is a mesmerising fusion of dance, drama, and music that reimagines a beloved story for the stage in spectacular fashion. Rambert Dance has crafted a production that is bold, innovative, and deeply emotional, providing a fresh lens on Tommy Shelby’s world. Whether you’re a fan of the series or new to the Peaky universe, this production offers an unforgettable theatrical experience, packed with intensity, beauty, and heart.
Rambert Dance in Peaky Blinders: The Redemption of Thomas Shelby is on at The Lowry until Saturday 26th October 2024, you can purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.
If you would like more information about the show click the button below for the show's official website.
Photo Credit - Johan Persson
*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review
Comments